Introduction
Imagine a leader who’s been fighting for his people’s dreams, standing tall in the stormy world of Pakistani politics. That’s Junaid Akbar, a key figure in Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party founded by cricket legend Imran Khan. Born in the rugged hills of Malakand, Junaid has risen from a local hero to a three-time Member of the National Assembly (MNA), representing NA-8 and NA-9. His journey is one of grit, loyalty, and a passion for change. In this article, we’ll dive into his life, from his early days to his role in PTI, his work for Malakand, and the challenges he’s faced. Whether you’re a student curious about politics or someone keen on Pakistan’s future, Junaid’s story will inspire you.
Early Life and Education
Junaid Akbar was born on March 23, 1977, in the scenic Malakand District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a place known for its mountains and rich culture. Growing up in Thana, a small town in Malakand, Junaid was shaped by the values of hard work and community spirit. His family, rooted in the Pashtun traditions, gave him a strong sense of duty to serve his people.
Junaid went to Peshawar University, where he earned his degree. His education wasn’t just about books—it taught him how to think critically and solve problems, skills he’d later use in politics. As a young man, he saw the struggles of Malakand’s people, from poor roads to limited schools, and these experiences planted the seeds for his political journey.
Political Career
Junaid Akbar didn’t just stumble into politics—he jumped in with a mission. In 2013, he joined PTI, a party promising to shake up Pakistan’s old political ways. As one of PTI’s early members, Junaid quickly became a trusted name. His loyalty to Imran Khan’s vision of a fair and prosperous Pakistan made him stand out.
Over the years, Junaid took on big roles in PTI. He served as the Provincial Joint Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and, in January 2025, became the Provincial President of PTI in KP. He also chaired the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), a powerful group that checks how the government spends money. His rise shows his knack for leadership and his deep connection with PTI’s goals.
Tenure as MNA
Junaid Akbar has been a voice for Malakand in Pakistan’s National Assembly. He first won a seat in 2013 from NA-35 (Malakand Protected Area), beating a candidate from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) with 51,312 votes. In 2018, he won again from NA-8 (Malakand), securing 81,310 votes and defeating Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of the Pakistan Peoples Party. In 2024, running as a PTI-backed independent for NA-9 (Malakand), he clinched 113,545 votes, proving his strong support in the region.
| Election Year | Constituency | Votes Received | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | NA-35 Malakand | 51,312 | JUI-F candidate | Won |
| 2018 | NA-8 Malakand | 81,310 | Bilawal Bhutto Zardari | Won |
| 2024 | NA-9 Malakand | 113,545 | Syed Ahmad Ali Shah (PPP) | Won |
As an MNA, Junaid focused on bringing real change. He pushed for better laws, spoke up for Malakand’s needs, and worked to make government spending more transparent as PAC Chairman. His speeches in the National Assembly often rallied support for PTI’s policies and Imran Khan’s leadership.
Development Projects and Public Welfare
Junaid Akbar’s heart lies in Malakand, and he’s worked hard to improve life there. He’s spearheaded projects to fix roads, build schools, and upgrade hospitals. For example, he pushed for better infrastructure in Thana, making it easier for people to travel and trade. He also supported programs to bring clean water to remote villages, a game-changer for families who struggled for years.
In education, Junaid helped set up new schools and improve existing ones, giving kids in Malakand a shot at a brighter future. In healthcare, he backed initiatives to equip local hospitals with better tools and staff. Locals say these changes have made a big difference—students have better classrooms, and families feel safer with improved medical care. One resident shared, “Junaid listens to us. He’s not just a politician; he’s one of us.”
Key Development Projects:
- Road Improvements: Upgraded roads in Thana and surrounding areas.
- Education: Built new schools and added resources to existing ones.
- Healthcare: Equipped hospitals with modern tools and trained staff.
- Water Supply: Launched clean water projects for rural Malakand.
Junaid Akbar’s Role in PTI
Junaid Akbar is a pillar of PTI, known for his fierce loyalty to Imran Khan. As Provincial President of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he’s helped shape PTI’s strategies in the region. He’s been a key player in organizing rallies, spreading PTI’s message, and rallying support for Khan’s vision of a corruption-free Pakistan.
Junaid also played a big role in PTI’s social media campaigns. In a 2025 speech, he praised the party’s social media team, saying, “Social media took us to the assemblies and spread our message to every corner of the world. We’re proud of our team.” This shows his understanding of how modern tools can boost PTI’s reach. His leadership has kept PTI strong in KP, even during tough times.
Political Views and Public Statements
Junaid Akbar’s views are clear: he wants a Pakistan that’s fair, strong, and prosperous. He’s spoken out on big issues like the economy, security, and youth opportunities. He believes in creating jobs for young people, fighting corruption, and strengthening Pakistan’s borders. In one speech, he said, “Our youth are our future. We need to give them skills and hope, not empty promises.”
In the media, Junaid is known for his bold and honest style. He often defends Imran Khan and PTI’s policies, calling for unity and progress. His speeches in the National Assembly and interviews on TV show his passion for change, making him a favorite among PTI supporters.
Challenges and Controversies
Junaid Akbar’s journey hasn’t been all smooth. In June 2024, he resigned from PTI’s core committee, frustrated that some leaders were using the party for personal gain. He also stepped down as PAC Chairman in May 2025, following Imran Khan’s instructions to focus on party rallies in KP. These moves sparked talk of rifts within PTI, with some saying Junaid felt sidelined.
Despite the criticism, Junaid handled it with grace. He reaffirmed his loyalty to Imran Khan, saying, “Titles don’t matter to me. If Khan asks me to step down, I’ll do it without question.” His focus on party unity and grassroots work won back many supporters. These challenges only showed his commitment to PTI’s bigger goals.
Future Plans and Political Ambitions
Looking ahead, Junaid Akbar is gearing up for more action. He’s focused on strengthening PTI’s base in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and preparing for future elections. His vision for Malakand includes more schools, better healthcare, and jobs for the youth. He also wants to keep pushing for transparency in government spending, a cause he championed as PAC Chairman.
Junaid’s loyalty to Imran Khan remains rock-solid. He’s likely to play a big role in PTI’s campaigns, especially as the party fights for its vision of a “Naya Pakistan.” With his track record, Junaid is a name to watch in Pakistan’s political future.